The Nintendo Switch version has all of the features that the Wii U version has, plus the following:

• Revamped Battle mode with new courses, complete with rules like Balloon Battle and Bob-omb Blast. New Battle mode courses include Urchin Underpass and Battle Stadium, plus returning ones like GCN Luigi's Mansion and SNES Battle Course 1.
• Choose from new characters, such as Inkling Girl and Inkling Boy from Splatoon, King Boo, Dry Bones, or Bowser Jr., and customize new vehicles.
• Two items can now be carried at once, and more items have been added, including returning favorites such as Boo, the item-stealing ghost, and the Feather, which gives you a high jump in Battle mode.
• Play your friends in local wireless multiplayer with up to 8 players.
• Play in TV mode in up to 1080p.
• Enjoy home-console-quality Mario Kart action anytime, anywhere with handheld mode.
• New optional Smart Steering feature makes it easier for kids and novice players to stay on the track, even at 200cc.
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is compatible with all of the same amiibo, plus Animal Crossing and Splatoon amiibo.
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes all the DLC from the Wii U version of Mario Kart 8, including Mercedes karts.